"The latest edition of the NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8 lens advances one of
the most popular fast-aperture focal lengths for sports, nature and
wildlife photography, demonstrating Nikon's commitment to professional
photographers through the continued development of the optical fidelity
and sharpness for which NIKKOR lenses are famous," said Edward Fasano,
general manager for marketing, SLR Systems Products at Nikon Inc.
"Offering compatibility with a wide range of NIKKOR optics, including
the new 300mm f/2.8, the TC-20E III teleconverter enables photographers
to greatly extend the versatility of a variety of zoom and telephoto
lenses they carry."

Whether photographing nature in the wild or the battles at a line of
scrimmage, the 300mm f/2.8 is an essential tool for photographers who
require the highest level of image quality for publication and
printing. This 300mm lens effectively leverages a host of Nikon core
technologies, including Nikon VR II image stabilization, specifically
engineered for each lens design for maximum performance. VR II instills
confidence by counteracting image blur introduced by camera shake and
telephoto magnification, allowing users to shoot up to four shutter
speed stops* slower than otherwise possible, overcoming many of the
challenges of handheld shooting. If tripod shooting is preferred, the
Tripod Detection Mode will detect and compensate for tripod-specific
vibrations.

This professional lens is constructed of die-cast magnesium for
maximum durability and is strategically sealed to resist dust and
moisture, with protective Meniscus glass to safeguard the lens' front
element. The optical formula features three Extra-low Dispersion (ED)
glass elements for superior sharpness, color and image quality, while
minimizing chromatic aberration. Additionally, an aspherical element is
used to promote image integrity throughout the frame, suppress coma and
minimize distortion. The lens also features Nikon's exclusive Silent
Wave Motor (SWM) technology which enables high-speed autofocus
performance with exceptional accuracy and powerful, super-quiet
operation. Nikon's exclusive Nano Crystal Coat prevents instances of
ghosting and flare for even greater image clarity.

The AF-S 300mm f/2.8 lens features a host of professional focusing
features that further enhance functionality. Photographers can now
select from three focus modes to match shooting conditions, including
manual mode (M) and autofocus with manual priority (M/A) mode, and the
new A/M mode. The A/M mode enhances AF control with fast, secure
switching from automatic and manual focus to adapt to personal shooting
preference and techniques. Additionally, users can also activate the AF
Recall Mode at the press of a button that allows for instant return to
a predetermined point of focus to capture anticipated shots confidently.

Nikon's professional grade teleconverters, including the new AF-S
TC-20E III are ideal companions to the new NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8 and other
select lenses to create an affordable and portable gateway to extended
telephoto photography. The new TC-20E III effectively doubles the focal
length of select lenses, and is the world's first teleconverter to
feature an aspherical element to virtually eliminate coma and other
aberrations even at wide apertures.

Price and Availability

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8G ED VR II lens is scheduled to be
available at Nikon authorized dealers with an estimated selling price
of $5,899.95. The Nikon AF-S Teleconverter TC-20E III will be available
for estimated selling price of $499.95**. Availability of both products
is scheduled to begin in January, 2010. For more information, please
visit www.nikonusa.com.

*As determined in Nikon performance tests

**Estimated selling price listed is only an estimate. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.